Global impact: St John Health nurse volunteers in Kenya

For many of us, a holiday means time off with family or relaxing at home. For Kim Gibson, a casual nurse at St John Health, it meant packing her scrubs and heading to Western Kenya to volunteer with the Nurses in Action program run by World Youth International.

From 29 June to 28 July, Kim spent a month in the village of Odede, working alongside local community health care workers, running medical camps and bringing health education into schools.

“It was a full-on month – busy, eye-opening, and incredibly rewarding.”

Across three mini medical camps and one major camp that drew more than 300 people, Kim and her team provided care, education and supplies.

“The first mini camp day brought in 167 kids to see the doctor and dentist.”

“Each child received a toothbrush, toothpaste and soap, many for the first time ever.”

“I loved being part of teaching and empowering them to use these basics with my team members.”

“The children’s excitement was contagious!”

Those supplies came with a little help from home. St John Health Joondalup donated tubes of toothpaste, which found their way into the hands of children.

Kim also gave back by sharing knowledge with local clinic staff, delivering presentations on topics like asthma and triage, while gaining invaluable lessons herself.

“Going into homes was a highlight. We treated scabies, ringworm… triaged patients and referred them for follow-up care if required.”

Kim soaked in the culture, explored local markets, stood on the equator and finished her trip with a quick safari at the Masai Mara.

“I even spotted a St John [Kenya] ambulance in downtown Kisumu – such a cool moment!”

Kim has come home with a renewed sense of purpose and connection.

“I feel quite humbled and so lucky to have had this experience – it’s something I’ll carry with me for a long time.”

Her story is a reminder that healthcare doesn’t stop at our borders, and that small acts can ripple out to make a world of difference.